The Los Angeles Rams are managing two critical health situations as they prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the Houston Texans: left tackle Alaric Jackson’s recovery and quarterback Matthew Stafford’s back.
On Monday, head coach Sean McVay delivered encouraging news on Jackson, who has been sidelined with blood clots. “I’m really happy that all things are pointing to him being ready to go and being able to manage this,” McVay said, via Gary Klein. He confirmed Jackson will progress into team drills next week.
The Rams signed Jackson to a three-year, $57 million deal this offseason, cementing him as a cornerstone up front. But after his health scare, the team added veteran D.J. Humphries on a one-year contract as insurance. Jackson, who has started 35 games in three seasons, remains the long-term answer, though Humphries offers valuable stability if needed. Warren McClendon and David Quesenberry provide additional depth.
Matthew Stafford Expected To Start For Los Angeles Rams vs Texans
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Meanwhile, Stafford’s outlook has brightened. McVay told reporters, “I can’t see into the future but if you look at what the last week has entailed, feel really good. There’s nothing that would leave me to believe, unless we have an unforeseen setback, that he’s not going to be ready to roll against the Texans,” per Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times.
Even with those assurances, questions remain. Can Jackson handle Houston’s formidable edge duo of Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter if cleared? If not, how quickly will they pivot to Humphries? And for Stafford, how will Los Angeles manage his workload and play-calling to ensure he not only makes it to Week 1, but also Week 2 and beyond?
Their answers to those questions will go a long way in shaping their early-season trajectory.
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